Maria Abada
Welcome! My name is Maria and I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of New Jersey. I have over 16 years experience working in the mental health field. I have worked in a variety of settings including residential, partial care, outpatient, in-home, and addictions. Although that seems like a mouthful, it simply means that I have had experience working with a broad range and severity of clinical issues. I have the most experience working with anxiety, family/relationship conflicts, life transitions, and complex trauma/abuse. In the last 5 years I have also worked with individuals with perinatal mental health issues. My dedication to the field of mental health stems from my personal experience with it. I grew up with close loved ones living with mental illness and I have personally overcome some mental health challenges, too. I know firsthand that getting help can be a challenge. There is still so much stigma around having mental health issues, the process for getting help can be overwhelming, and it can feel so frustrating and lonely. However, I also know from experience how much life can change for the better when you find support and take steps towards taking care of yourself! I use a person-centered, holistic, multicultural, and integrative approach in treatment. This means I begin where you are and tailor the treatment approach to your needs while being sensitive to how your individual cultural identities and lifestyle choices impact your experience. I use evidence based techniques including cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused counseling. I also incorporate trauma-informed care into my work with clients. However, I do incorporate more "classical" approaches to counseling as well. I would describe my style as warm and supportive, and I am ready to help you tackle your struggle head-on. Collaboration is important - together we can work on establishing concrete goals and steps for you to help overcome your current problems. If you are looking for quick fixes, I am not the best counselor to work with. I believe in taking time and working on wellness slowly, holistically, and consistently. Just as physical health takes time and consistency, so does mental health. I look forward to helping you in any way I can! Please be advised I am currently available to provide services only to female clients. Thank you again for taking time in learning more about me.
Francesco Rizzo
As a licensed therapist in New Jersey, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients address stress, anxiety, relationship challenges, and personal growth. I bring deep expertise in LGBTQ+ experiences, addiction recovery, and supporting individuals through life transitions. My therapeutic approach is compassionate and affirming, with a focus on helping clients develop self-love, improve communication, and overcome barriers like social anxiety, isolation, and personal limitations. I work collaboratively to explore underlying emotional patterns, supporting healing across diverse experiences including workplace stress, relationship dynamics, and personal identity challenges. I am committed to creating a supportive, non-judgmental space where individuals can explore their unique journeys, develop resilience, and cultivate meaningful personal transformation. Whether you're struggling with life transitions, interpersonal challenges, or seeking deeper self-understanding, I'm here to support your path toward emotional wellness.
Marsha Tipelin
I am a licensed clinical therapist with a Masters degree from Columbia University in New York and over twenty years of experience in individual, couples, and family therapy. My style is solution and insight oriented to define and untangle issues and feelings which are presented as problematic in any life stage. Will work with you warmly and compassionately to reach your goals for happier relationships, joyful daily outlook and significance. I have particular experience in addressing depression or anxiety issues both within an individual and as a barrier in interpersonal or employment situations.
Ammarritta Simpson
I am a licensed clinical social worker in New Jersey with over 5 years of experience working as a therapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, PTSD, schizophrenia, addiction, OCD and bipolar. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic and rational-emotive counseling. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!
Laura Hennessy
My name is Laura Hennessy. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor in New Jersey. Much of my work has been at a nonprofit community mental health center where I worked with adolescents and adults. I have experience working with individuals with mental health and substance use disorders. I use an approach focused on engagement, insight building and motivation. I believe that our feelings and experiences are valid and deserve to be expressed freely and without judgment. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you.
Suzanne DePasquale
As a licensed therapist in New Jersey and Florida, I bring 25 years of dedicated experience supporting individuals through complex life transitions and emotional challenges. My practice specializes in working with older adults, families, and individuals navigating significant life changes such as divorce, caregiving, and relationship dynamics. I have developed deep expertise in addressing relationship issues, family conflicts, grief, and compassion fatigue. My therapeutic approach is diverse to include emotional challenges of aging and end-of-life experiences. My clinical focus encompasses a wide range of sensitive areas, including domestic violence, narcissistic relationship patterns, autism spectrum experiences, and supporting individuals and families through critical health journeys like cancer and HIV/AIDS. I approach each client's experience with empathy, professional insight, and a commitment to understanding their individual needs. My goal is to create a supportive, understanding environment where clients can explore their emotions, develop resilience, and find meaningful pathways to healing and personal growth.
Dr. Kevin Laughlin
I am licensed in New Jersey with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Josephine Mixson
I am licensed in New Jersey with 17 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! I also specialize in Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault
Carolyn Appell
I am licensed in New Jersey with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients coping with substance use disorders, as well as relationship issues. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
Jillian Holguin
Hello, My name is Jillian Holguin and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am licensed in New Jersey, Virginia and Florida with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in providing therapeutic services to individuals, couples/martial counseling, group, and family therapy as well as within a higher level of care settings. I have worked with an at-risk early childhood to late adulthood populations as well as having the honor of working with military personnel, and veterans. I specialize in trauma, and am a certified trauma provider. I work with individuals navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, life transitions, and the desire to create healthier patterns. My style is both warm and direct—I will hold space for you with empathy, while also encouraging insight and action. From approaches such as CBT, EMDR, trauma-informed care, and mindfulness-based practice. I went to Seton Hall University for my Bachelor of Arts in Social Work. From there, I completed the accelerated MSW program at Rutgers University graduating Summa Cum Laude. I also received a certificate in advanced assessment and diagnosis from New York University, a certificate in pharmacology from Harvard University and a certified Telehealth practitioner from Thomas Jefferson University. Seeking therapy is one of the bravest steps you can take toward healing, growth, and self-discovery. As a therapist, I believe every person carries an untold story, and within that story lies the strength to overcome challenges and build a life that feels authentic and fulfilling. My role is to help you uncover that strength while offering compassion, guidance, and evidence-based tools tailored to your unique journey.
Erin Magee-Gary
As a clinician, I have 20 years experience working with clients to identify underlying issues to current challenges and effective coping strategies. Together, we explore your goals and any habits and behaviors that may no longer be serving you. Change isn't always easy and I provide my clients a safe and supportive space to help find their answers within and a path forward. I take a cognitive-behavioral and person-centered approach with a focus on motivational interviewing. In addition to being a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC), I hold a certification as a Behavior Change Specialist through the National Academy of Sports Medicine and am studying to be a Health Coach through the Institute for Integrative Nutrition. I utilize the structure of talk therapy to explore how the mind-body connection can help clients make changes, reach goals and sustain progress. It takes a lot of courage to reach out for help and I am so glad you are here. I look forward to working with you.
Dina Kick
I am licensed in New Jersey with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, bipolar disorder, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Renee Riddell
I am licensed in New Jersey with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief, coping with loss, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
Sharaya Wallace-Collins
As a licensed therapist serving New Jersey and Delaware, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex life transitions, relationship dynamics, and personal growth. My approach centers on understanding each client's unique experiences, with a deep commitment to culturally responsive and empathetic care. I have extensive expertise in addressing relationship challenges, grief, self-esteem concerns, and career difficulties. My practice focuses on helping clients develop meaningful strategies for managing mood disorders, communication barriers, attachment issues, and multicultural experiences. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I create a compassionate and affirming therapeutic environment where clients can explore their challenges, build resilience, and cultivate personal transformation. My background as a therapist of color allows me to bring nuanced understanding and authentic connection to our work together. I believe in honoring each individual's journey, recognizing that healing is a collaborative process rooted in mutual respect, understanding, and genuine human connection.
Find a Therapist Near You in Colonia , New Jersey
Finding a licensed therapist near you in New Jersey can be an important step toward improving your mental health and overall well-being. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, stress, or major life changes, working with a qualified mental health professional can offer meaningful support.
New Jersey is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities. Online therapy makes it easier to connect with a therapist near you without being limited to nearby offices. BetterHelp connects you with licensed therapists authorized to practice in New Jersey, allowing you to attend sessions online from the comfort of your home.
Why work with a licensed therapist near you?
Working with a licensed therapist near you ensures that your provider meets state licensing requirements and professional standards in New Jersey (NJ). Licensed therapists use evidence-based approaches to help individuals manage emotional challenges, develop coping skills, and work toward personal goals.
People seek therapy for many reasons. Some are navigating ongoing mental health concerns, while others want guidance during stressful periods or major life transitions. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to work with a therapist. Many individuals seek therapy to improve communication, strengthen relationships, manage stress, or gain greater self-awareness.
Online therapy can be especially helpful for people living across New Jersey, where access to in-person mental health care may vary by location.
What concerns can therapists help with?
Therapists on BetterHelp support adults across New Jersey with a wide range of mental health concerns and life challenges, including:
- Anxiety and stress
- Depression and mood-related concerns
- Trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Grief and loss
- Relationship and family challenges
- Life transitions and adjustment concerns
- Self-esteem and confidence
- Job stress and burnout
- ADHD-related challenges
- Sleep concerns
- Parenting stress
- Eating disorder support
Therapists use approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and other evidence-based methods tailored to individual needs.
Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in New Jersey
When searching for a therapist near me in New Jersey, many people compare online therapy with traditional in-person care. Online therapy offers several potential advantages:
- Greater accessibility: Attend sessions from anywhere with an internet connection
- Reduced wait times: Many people are matched in as little as 24-48 hours, faster than typical in-person availability
- Flexible scheduling: Sessions that fit around work, family, or school commitments
- Expanded provider options: Access licensed therapists across New Jersey, not just nearby offices
Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns. Online therapy may also reduce barriers such as transportation challenges, long commutes, or limited local availability, especially in larger or more rural counties across New Jersey.
Finding a therapist near me that accepts insurance
Many people looking for a therapist near me in New Jersey want to know whether insurance is an option.
Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. Coverage depends on your plan, provider, and therapist availability.
When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by state and provider availability, so it’s important to check your in-network status directly on the BetterHelp site.
If insurance coverage is not available, BetterHelp’s flexible subscription model remains an option, with online therapy typically costing $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price.
How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in New Jersey
BetterHelp simplifies the process of finding a therapist near you in New Jersey without requiring you to search through tons of profiles on your own.
Here’s how it works:
- Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
- Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in New Jersey (NJ)
- Begin online therapy sessions through video, phone, or live chat
BetterHelp works with one of the world’s largest networks of licensed therapists, with over 30,000 qualified providers globally. Many members are matched in as little as 24 to 48 hours, and 93% of user preferences are met during the matching process.
You can request a new therapist at no additional cost if your needs or preferences change.
Therapists near you in New Jersey
Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across New Jersey, including residents in Colonia.
Each provider meets state licensing requirements and has experience supporting clients with a wide range of mental health concerns using evidence-based therapeutic approaches.
Please note: Therapists on BetterHelp in New Jersey do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.
Frequently asked questions about finding a therapist near me
How much does therapy cost near me?
Therapy costs vary depending on provider and location. In-person therapy sessions may cost $100 to $200 or more per session. BetterHelp offers online therapy subscriptions that typically range from $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly, depending on factors such as location, source, preferences, and therapist availability. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price. BetterHelp now accepts major insurance plans in select states and members pay an average copay of $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.
Does BetterHelp accept insurance?
Yes. Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.
Is online therapy effective?
Yes. Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship challenges. Online therapy allows you to connect with a licensed therapist without commuting to an office.
Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?
No. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to seek therapy. Many people work with a therapist for stress management, relationship concerns, grief, life transitions, or personal growth.
How quickly can I start therapy?
Many people are matched with a licensed therapist in as little as 24 to 48 hours after completing the initial questionnaire. Match times may vary based on preferences and therapist availability.
Can I switch therapists if it’s not the right fit?
Yes. If you feel your therapist is not the right match, you can request to be matched with another licensed provider at no additional cost. You are able to do so through the BetterHelp user portal and select switch therapists if needed.
Is online therapy private and secure?
Online therapy through BetterHelp allows you to communicate with your therapist in a discreet setting through video, phone, or messaging tools.